Alocasia gageana ‘Aurea’ is a highly sought-after houseplant known for its distinctive beauty. Often called the Golden Elephant Ear, this cultivar features striking golden-yellow variegation. Its appearance makes it popular among plant collectors.
Identifying Alocasia Gageana Aurea
Identifying Alocasia gageana ‘Aurea’ is by its unique foliage. It has broad, paddle-shaped leaves that are predominantly green with bold splashes of yellow or lime variegation. This golden marbling creates a vivid, contrasting pattern, distinguishing it from the standard Alocasia gageana. As leaves mature, their color transforms from medium green to vibrant yellow over about a month. Indoors, it typically reaches 1 to 1.5 meters in height with an upright growth habit.
Alocasia Gageana Aurea Care
Light
Alocasia gageana ‘Aurea’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Filtered sunlight or a well-lit room maintains its vibrant variegation and leaf health. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves. If natural light is limited, LED grow lights (6-12 inches above, 12-16 hours daily) provide adequate illumination.
Water
Consistent moisture is ideal. Keep soil evenly moist, allowing the top inch or two to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering causes root rot; underwatering leads to drooping or browning leaves. Water weekly during the spring and summer growing season, reducing frequency in cooler, dormant months. Use room temperature water and ensure proper drainage.
Soil
A well-draining, airy, and rich organic soil mix is suitable. This prevents waterlogging and provides aeration for healthy root development. A recommended blend includes coco coir (moisture retention), perlite or orchid bark (drainage/aeration), and worm castings (nutrients). Activated horticultural charcoal can add air pockets and support root growth. The soil should be slightly acidic (pH below 7).
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity (60-80%) is preferred. Low humidity can cause brown leaf tips, especially on variegated areas. Maintain humidity with a room humidifier, pebble tray, or by grouping plants. Optimal temperatures are 18-29°C (65-85°F); protect from cold drafts or sudden fluctuations.
Fertilizer
During the active growing season (spring to fall), regular fertilization is beneficial. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 NPK), diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. Apply to damp soil to prevent root burn. Reduce or stop fertilization in winter when growth slows or the plant enters dormancy.
Propagating Alocasia Gageana Aurea
Alocasia gageana ‘Aurea’ is propagated by dividing its rhizomes or corms (underground storage structures). This is best done during repotting in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Carefully remove the mother plant from its pot and shake off excess soil to expose the root ball and attached corms or rhizomes.
Corms are small, round, brown structures found among the roots. Detach them carefully, ensuring each has a growth point. Place separated corms in a moist medium like sphagnum moss within a high-humidity environment (e.g., sealed container or terrarium) to encourage rooting. For larger plants, divide the main rhizome into sections, each with healthy roots and a growth point, then repot individually.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Common issues often signal environmental imbalances. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering or insufficient light; adjust watering or relocate. Drooping leaves suggest too much or too little water; check soil moisture. Brown leaf tips often result from low humidity; increase ambient moisture. Stunted growth or small leaves may indicate a need for more consistent fertilization or a larger pot.
Pests and Diseases
Alocasia gageana ‘Aurea’ is susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions, causing tiny dots or webbing. Mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses; thrips are small, slender insects causing distorted growth and silvery streaks. Regular inspection, especially of leaf undersides, aids early detection.
For treatment, wipe leaves with a damp cloth or a rubbing alcohol-dipped cotton swab for mealybugs. Insecticidal soap or neem oil is effective against spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips when applied thoroughly. Consistent application is necessary to break pest life cycles. Adequate humidity also deters spider mites.
Is Alocasia Gageana Aurea Toxic?
Alocasia gageana ‘Aurea’ is toxic if ingested. Like other Araceae plants, all parts contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing releases these crystals, causing immediate irritation and pain to the lips, mouth, tongue, and throat. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty swallowing. Keep it out of reach of pets and children to prevent accidental ingestion.